Coles set for century with club he loves
Dane Coles has come a long way from the self- confessed “ratbag” who entered the Hurricanes in 2009.
Back then, he was a 22- year- old tyro with a nose for the tryline and a competitive, almost fiery, streak. He job- shared with Andrew Hore in a squad coached by Colin Cooper and captained by Tamati Ellison. Cory Jane is the only other survivor from that year’s Hurricanes side that fini shed third and went down to the Chiefs in the semifinals.
Now Coles joins 10 Hurricanes in the 100 club, including Hore, leading out his men for the first time in four months as they seek a third consecutive grand final appearance.
“It will be a massive honour to join those players in reaching a milestone that I never thought I would achieve,” Coles said. “I love pulling on the yellow and black jersey and representing the Hurricanes region and I’ve treasured every opportunity.”
The 30- year- old rake admitted last week to some dark moments after his hiatus while he battled concussion symptoms. Retirement entered his thoughts, and it would not have helped when concerned fans and friends would ask him how he was doing ad nauseam on a daily basis.
But his remarkable return last Friday against the Brumbies, in which the Hurricanes’ resurgence started around the time he ran on at the 50 minute mark, and where he gave a try assist and did all that was required, has convinced Coles and his coaches that he was ready not only to start but also assume the captain’s armband.
“That was a big motivation to get back, to try and crack that 100. There were times where I didn’t think I would get back,” said Coles. “I’m stoked I’ve been given a chance to play so many games for a club I love.”
He admitted to being a fan from the start, having attended plenty of Hurricanes home games before he joined them as player.
“He’s walked back into the environment and he’s the same old Dane that we know. He was barking at training this morning. The boys relate to him because they have such high respect for him,” said Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd. “He epitomises what the Hurricanes are about and although he probably won’t want anyone to make a fuss, I’m sure his milestone will provide some motivation for his teammates.”
Coles knows the Lions will be tough to beat on the high veldt.
“It’s going to take a 23- man effort. We’re going to have to empty the tank and make sure we are accurate and hissing from the start.”